If you are thinking of traveling to Mexico, you may need to apply for a tourist visa, also known as a visitor visa.
Below you will find more details about the application process, costs, processing times, and how to apply.
What is a tourist visa for Mexico?
The tourist visa for Mexico is a permit granted by the Mexican government that allows travelers to enter the country for tourism purposes .
What can you do with a tourist visa for Mexico?
- Visiting Mexico as a tourist
- Visiting family and friends
- Participate in volunteer work or language studies
- Attend conferences or business meetings (without payment)
What can’t you do with a tourist visa for Mexico?
- Perform paid work
- Participate in activities that violate Mexican law
- Living or studying in the country long-term
Who can apply for a tourist visa for Mexico?
To travel to Mexico, you will need to obtain a visa, unless you are a citizen of one of the 68 countries exempt from this requirement:
- Check the list of visa-exempt nationalities on the official government website
- A Mexican visa is not required for visitors traveling to Mexico for tourism, business or transit purposes to another destination, as long as they have a valid visa issued by one of the following countries : Canada, Japan, United States of America, United Kingdom or any country belonging to the Schengen area.
Do children/minors also need to apply for a visa for Mexico?
Minors traveling to Mexico must also apply for a Mexican visa, regardless of their age. The application process is similar to that for adults.
Legal guardians may be required to submit additional documentation, such as birth certificates, parental consent forms, and copies of their identification documents.
Validity of a tourist visa for Mexico: How long can I stay in the country?
You must use the visa within 180 days from the date of issue. Upon arrival, the immigration officer will grant you a maximum permitted stay of 30, 60 or 90 days, depending on your nationality and travel plans.
Tourist Visa for Mexico: Required Documents
To apply for a tourist visa for Mexico, you must present the following documents:
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Mexico.
- A completed Mexican tourist visa application form , which will be provided to you during the process with the government.
- Proof of return travel (such as a return ticket).
- Evidence of sufficient funds such as a bank statement or cash for the entirety of your stay.
- A recent passport-type photograph , taken within the last six months.
Financial Requirements
To apply for most Mexican visas, foreign citizens must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their expenses during their stay in the country.
This may include providing a bank statement or proof of cash availability . Specific financial requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip.
In general, it is advisable to have the necessary resources to cover your accommodation, transportation and other expenses during your stay in Mexico .
How to apply for a tourist visa for Mexico
To obtain a tourist visa for Mexico, contact the nearest Mexican Embassy or Consulate in your country of origin and follow the instructions provided.
To apply for this visa, you must make an appointment at the Mexican Embassy or Consulate closest to your location.
Costs and processing times for a Mexican tourist visa
On the day of your appointment, bring your documents and the completed application form with you to the Mexican Embassy. There you will need to pay the visa fee, which is usually around US$36 .
Fees may vary depending on the type of visa and where you apply. Payment methods may also differ: some countries require payment via bank transfer, while others accept cash.
In addition, it will be necessary to acquire an air or land tourist card , with a cost ranging from US$15 to US$30.
The time it takes to process a Mexican visa can vary by location. Some embassies can issue your visa in as little as two days, while others can take up to four weeks . We recommend applying as far in advance as possible to avoid inconveniences and delays.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Tourist Visa
Can I apply for a visa for free?
No, there is a fee to process the Mexican tourist visa application.
What is the fee for a Mexican tourist visa?
The application fee for a Mexican tourist visa is approximately US$51 and depends on your country of origin.
How long does it take to apply for a Mexican tourist visa?
If you apply through a Visa application platform that protects all your data and information, the application will take less than 15 minutes. They will also make sure that your application is 100% compliant with government regulations so that you can avoid denials and loss of time and money.
What is the letter of consent required to travel with a child?
The letter of consent is a legal document in which the child’s other parent or guardian confirms his or her consent for the minor to travel.
How much money should appear on bank statements in order to apply for a Mexican tourist visa?
To obtain a Mexican tourist visa, your bank statements must show a balance between US$1,738 and US$5,214. This amount will allow you to prove that you have sufficient funds to cover your travel expenses.
